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As you venture along the banks of the River Sherbourne, you'll encounter a rich variety of plant and animal life, each contributing to the vibrant ecosystem that thrives in this environment that is so crucial to us.
There is a diverse array of plant species that flourish throughout the Sherbourne Valley. In wetland areas like Coundon Wedge, majestic bullrushes and common reed mace sway gracefully, providing vital habitats for local wildlife. Towering trees such as Oak, Sycamore, Willow, and Poplar offer shelter and sustenance for a variety of creatures. Our Volunteers work tirelessly to combat the spread of the sadly common invasive Himalayan balsam, doing what we can to preserve the delicate balance of this ecosystem.
Families bug hunting with Alex
As you wander along the riverside, keep your eyes peeled for the many fascinating creatures that call the Sherbourne home. Ducks, particularly mallards, and many commonly seen songbirds are a regular sight, gracefully paddling along the river's surface or flitting between the tree branches. A rarer wetland species, Little egrets can be spotted at Charterhouse.
Red kites, sparrowhawks, and buzzards soar overhead, and peregrine falcons can be found on the highest buildings in the city centre. Common fish such as sticklebacks and bullhead fish are often seen darting beneath the surface. Easily seen invertebrates include pond snails and the invasive American signal crayfish. Mammals such as foxes, badgers, roe deer, and muntjac deer roam the surrounding areas, with otters occasionally spotted in certain sections of the river.
Take a visual journey through the diverse wildlife of the River Sherbourne. Below is a selection of stunning images captured by local photographers, showcasing the beauty and biodiversity of this unique ecosystem.
From graceful waterfowl to elusive otters, these images offer a glimpse into the rich diversity of life along the Sherbourne.
7 Spot Ladybird - Jordan Davies
Agriotes Beetle - Jordan Davies
Bluebells - Rich Copland
Azure Damselfly - Rich Copland
Bumble Bee - Rich Copland
Barn Swallow - Rich Copland
Bumble Bee - Jordan Davies
Common Blue Butterfly - Rich Copland
Common Buzzard - Rich Copland
Common Daisy - Rich Copland
Common Darter - Rich Copland
Common Darter Dragonfly - Rich Copland
Common Kestrel - Rich Copland
Earthworm - Jordan Davies
Eurasian Siskin - Rich Copland
Eurasian Wren - Rich Copland
Forget-me-nots - Jordan Davies
Green Longhorn Moth - Jordan Davies
Grey Wagtail - Rich Copland
Lesser Celandine - Jordan Davies
Lesser Celandine - Rich Copland
Lichens & Mosses - Jordan Davies
Little Egret - Rich Copland
Mallards - Jordan Davies
Mayfly - Rich Copland
Muntjac Tracks - Jordan Davies
Mushrooms - Rich Copland
Orange-tip Butterfly - Rich Copland
Red Fox - Rich Copland
Reed Bunting - Rich Copland
Ribwort Plantain - Jordan Davies
Small Tortoiseshell Butterfly - Rich Copland
Smokey Bracket Fungi - Jordan Davies
Smooth Newt - Rich Copland
Speckled Wood Butterfly - Rich Copland
Stoat - Rich Copland
Threespine Sticklebacks - Rich Copland
Preserving the natural beauty of the Sherbourne is a priority for the community. Restoration projects, including the Stage Zero river restoration at Coundon Wedge, aim to enhance habitats and improve biodiversity along the river. Volunteers actively participate in litter picking and invasive species removal to combat pollution and maintain the health of the ecosystem.
Climate change poses challenges, but The Sherbourne Valley Project’s educational initiatives and volunteer training sessions empower the community to take action and protect the Sherbourne's natural environment.
Dive deeper into the Sherbourne's natural world by exploring our restoration projects and educational initiatives.
Learn how you can get involved in volunteering opportunities and contribute to the conservation efforts. Together, we can ensure that the River Sherbourne remains a thriving ecosystem for generations to come.
